ORANGE, Texas — The Salem United Methodist Church in Orange celebrated its 159th Anniversary on Sunday. The celebrations included a proclamation presented by Orange Mayor Larry Spears Jr. and a performance by the West Orange Stark High School choir.
For 159 years, generations of families have filled the pews of the Salem United Methodist Church and those attending the church’s anniversary were filled with pride and excitement.
"I'm looking forward to the West Orange Choir singing and the sermon,” said church member Easter Adams.
Adams became a member more than 60 years ago, after moving to Orange to live with her aunt.
“I joined because that's where they were going at the time, and I’ve been here ever since." Adams told 12News.
She said three generations of her family have attended services at the church, including her children and now grandchildren.
“It's great and wonderful to know that we have stayed together this long,” said Adams.
Emanuel Echols, 27, is the church’s newly appointed pastor. He moved from Waskom to Orange last July.
“I’m extremely excited to continue to go along and continue the legacy that is here. I’m thankful for the ladies and gentlemen who were in this pastoral role who have come before me and passed down the baton to me. To have a church for 159 years is one a blessing because it was only God that allowed us to stand this long,” said Pastor Echols.
He says the church is one of the largest Black churches in Southeast Texas, but it wasn't without some humble beginnings.
“It started out in a small building and then a wood frame church and then it went to a two-story building, "Echols told 12News.
Fast forward to 2024 and the current church sits on the corner of West John Avenue with about 60 members attending every Sunday. Echols also says he's striving to add to the church's rich history.
“My next goal is continuing to strengthen the church spiritually and financially. We're trying to reach out and grab the young people to continue to allow them to know they are still apart of God's family as well,” said Echols.
Pastor Echols says he's honored to continue leading the Salem United Methodist Church.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.